Know who is FDNY firefighter Mark Batista who died recently
In a heart-rending incident on Friday, June 9, New York City firefighter Mark Batista, 39, tragically drowned while endeavoring to save his teenage daughter from turbulent waves at a New Jersey beach.
According to NBC News, Batista, a seasoned firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), bravely entered the waters at Sylvania Avenue beach in Avon-by-the-Sea around 8:30 am to aid his daughter struggling against the capricious surf.
Who is FDNY firefighter Mark Batista who died while trying to save his teenage daughter from drowning
Unfortunately, both father and daughter were swept up in the powerful waves, leading alarmed beachgoers to alert emergency services. Emergency responders swiftly arrived and were able to rescue the girl approximately ten minutes later, subsequently transporting her to a nearby hospital.
We are heartbroken to learn about the death of Firefighter Mark Batista, who died Friday while swimming at the Jersey Shore. FF Batista was a dedicated public servant who spent 15 years serving in the FDNY, as both an EMT and firefighter. We join his family in mourning. pic.twitter.com/hGQhYSjgYi
— FDNY (@FDNY) June 11, 2023
However, Batista was not immediately located. Police reported that Batista, discovered around 10 am approximately 50 feet from the shore, was rushed to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Community Grieves for “Dedicated Public Servant” Mark Batista
The FDNY confirmed Batista’s demise on Sunday, June 11, detailing the tragic circumstances of his heroic rescue attempt at the New Jersey beach. In a statement, the department hailed Batista as a ‘dedicated public servant,’ lauding his 15 years of service as an FDNY firefighter and EMT. The FDNY’s poignant message read:
“Firefighter Batista was a dedicated public servant who spent fifteen years serving in the FDNY, as both an EMT and a firefighter. We join his family in mourning his tragic passing.”
Tributes pour in for the brave firefighter
News of Batista’s passing quickly spread, prompting hundreds of people to express their condolences and respect on the FDNY’s Facebook page. One user commented, “RIP. Firefighter Batista, Thank you for your Service. Prayers and condolences to the Family.” Others echoed this sentiment, extending their heartfelt condolences to Batista’s family, friends, and his fellow first responders.
Ari Kagan, a New Jersey councilman, also honored Batista’s sacrifice, stating, “My heart goes out to the family of firefighter Mark Batista who lost his life trying to save his daughter.”
Lifeguard absence and recent public servant tragedies
NBC New York noted that the beach did not have lifeguards present at the time of the incident, with regular lifeguard duty not set to begin until June 17. In the wake of the tragic event, officials issued a warning to beachgoers, urging caution when entering the water outside of lifeguard duty hours.
Batista’s heartbreaking incident follows a similar recent tragedy involving Zane Breakiron, a 34-year-old Morgantown police officer, who was killed in a single-vehicle crash while off duty earlier this month.
In these sorrowful times, the community stands united, remembering these brave public servants who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The legacy of Mark Batista, a hero who lost his life while attempting to save another, will forever be etched in the hearts of those he served.